Politics

Sowore Rallies to Protest Raye’s Withheld NYSC Certificate

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on August 12th, 2025.

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has vowed to lead a public demonstration over the alleged unlawful withholding of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate belonging to Nigerian youth activist Raye.

According to Sowore, the situation represents not just an injustice to one individual but a symptom of deeper systemic abuse within Nigerian institutions. Speaking to journalists on Monday, he accused the NYSC of “weaponizing bureaucracy” to silence voices critical of the establishment.

“When the state decides to punish citizens by denying them what they have rightfully earned, it ceases to be a democracy. Raye has fulfilled all obligations under the NYSC programme — there is no lawful reason to hold her certificate hostage,” Sowore said.

Raye, who completed her service year months ago, claims the NYSC has refused to release her discharge certificate without providing a clear explanation. The absence of the document has reportedly affected her career opportunities, forcing her to put several plans on hold.

Sowore announced that a coalition of activists, student groups, and civil society organizations will march to the NYSC headquarters in Abuja later this week. The planned protest, he said, will demand immediate release of the certificate and broader reforms to ensure no corps member suffers similar treatment.

He also called on Nigerians to view the case as more than an individual grievance, urging them to resist any form of bureaucratic oppression.

“This is about justice, accountability, and the dignity of every young Nigerian. Today it’s Raye; tomorrow it could be your son, daughter, or friend,” he warned.

The NYSC has yet to respond to the allegations.

The protest is expected to draw significant attention, not only because of Sowore’s track record as a fearless government critic but also due to growing frustration among Nigerian youths over institutional inefficiency an

d perceived injustice.